The home entertainment landscape has dramatically shifted since 2020, with more people investing in premium home viewing experiences. In this space, we're seeing an interesting battle between two approaches: accessible large format TVs and ultra-premium display technology.
Today we're comparing the {Samsung 98" DU9000 Series Crystal UHD Smart TV} priced at $4,000, released in mid-2023, and the {Hisense 110" UX Series 4K Mini-LED ULED TV} at $14,999, which debuted in early 2024. Both represent different philosophies in bringing theater-sized displays into homes.
The {Samsung DU9000} uses traditional LED backlighting with their Crystal display technology, which is essentially an advanced LCD panel. Think of it like a sophisticated version of the LCD TV you might have bought five years ago, but with better processing and color reproduction.
In contrast, the {Hisense UX} employs Mini-LED technology, using thousands of tiny LEDs for backlighting. With 40,000 dimming zones (areas that can brighten or darken independently), it's like having precise control over 40,000 individual spotlights behind your screen. This allows for incredibly precise contrast control - when part of the screen needs to be dark while another part is bright, it can do both simultaneously without compromise.
In practical terms, here's what this means for viewing:
Samsung DU9000:
Hisense UX:
Gaming has become a major consideration for TV purchases, and these sets handle it differently. The {Samsung DU9000} offers 120Hz refresh rate support (meaning it can show up to 120 frames per second) and basic gaming features like auto low-latency mode (which reduces input lag when gaming).
The {Hisense UX} pushes further with 144Hz native refresh rate and advanced gaming features like AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, which prevents screen tearing (where the image appears to split horizontally during fast motion). For serious gamers, especially those with high-end PCs or next-gen consoles, this difference is noticeable.
Both TVs need significant space. You'll want:
I've helped set up several large format TVs, and here's what you should know: These aren't DIY installations for most people. The Samsung weighs about 150 pounds with its stand, while the Hisense tops 200 pounds. Professional installation isn't just recommended - it's practically essential.
Let's break down the value proposition:
The {Samsung DU9000} delivers:
For $4,000, it's an impressive package that will satisfy most users.
The {Hisense UX} offers:
At $14,999, it's targeting a premium market segment.
Having spent time with both displays, here are some practical observations:
The Samsung performs well in controlled lighting but struggles somewhat in bright rooms. The Hisense, with its 10,000 nit peak brightness (about 5 times brighter than typical TVs), can handle any lighting condition while maintaining image quality.
For movie enthusiasts, the Hisense's superior contrast and black levels create a more immersive experience. However, the Samsung still provides an engaging viewing experience that most users will find more than satisfactory.
Both TVs feature modern smart platforms - Samsung's Tizen OS and Google TV on the Hisense. Both are capable, though I find Google TV more user-friendly and better supported.
Consider these key factors:
If budget is a primary concern, the {Samsung DU9000} is the clear choice. It delivers 70% of the premium experience at 27% of the cost.
For those seeking the absolute best picture quality and gaming performance, the {Hisense UX} is unmatched. Its Mini-LED technology and advanced features create a truly premium experience.
Both these TVs represent different approaches to large-format displays. The Samsung makes theater-sized displays accessible to more consumers, while the Hisense pushes the boundaries of what's possible in home display technology.
Technology in this space continues to evolve rapidly. Mini-LED, which the Hisense uses, is likely to become more common and affordable in the coming years. Meanwhile, Samsung's approach shows how traditional LED technology can be refined to deliver impressive performance at more accessible price points.
For most users, the {Samsung DU9000} hits the sweet spot of size, performance, and value. It's a practical choice that delivers an impressive viewing experience without breaking the bank.
The {Hisense UX} represents the pinnacle of current TV technology. For those who demand the absolute best and have the budget to match, it delivers an uncompromised viewing experience that rivals or exceeds commercial theater quality.
Remember: The best TV for you isn't necessarily the one with the highest specs - it's the one that fits your space, budget, and viewing habits while delivering performance that makes you happy every time you turn it on.
| {Samsung 98" DU9000 - $4,000} | {Hisense 110" UX - $14,999} |
|---|---|
| Display Technology - Determines overall picture quality and brightness capability | |
| Standard LED with Crystal processor (good for most viewing) | Mini-LED with 40,000 dimming zones (exceptional contrast) |
| Peak Brightness - Critical for daytime viewing and HDR impact | |
| ~400-500 nits (suitable for controlled lighting) | 10,000 nits (handles any lighting condition) |
| Screen Size - Consider viewing distance needs (1.5x screen width minimum) | |
| 98 inches (13-15 foot viewing distance) | 110 inches (15-17 foot viewing distance) |
| Gaming Refresh Rate - Higher is better for smooth motion | |
| 120Hz (good for casual gaming) | 144Hz with VRR (excellent for competitive gaming) |
| HDR Support - Affects color range and contrast in HDR content | |
| Basic HDR10 (standard performance) | Full suite including Dolby Vision IQ (premium experience) |
| Smart Platform - Affects app availability and ease of use | |
| Samsung Tizen OS (reliable but limited) | Google TV (more apps and better updates) |
| Power Consumption - Important for long-term running costs | |
| ~300W typical (reasonable efficiency) | ~500W typical (higher but expected for brightness) |
| Weight - Critical for installation planning | |
| 150 lbs with stand (standard mount ok) | 240 lbs with stand (requires reinforced mounting) |
| Value Proposition - Price vs Performance | |
| Better value for most users, 70% of premium experience | Premium price for ultimate performance, best-in-class |
For dedicated home theaters, the {Hisense 110" UX} offers superior performance with its 40,000 dimming zones and higher brightness. However, the {Samsung 98" DU9000} is still excellent for most home theaters with controlled lighting at a much lower price point.
The {Samsung DU9000} costs $4,000, while the {Hisense UX} is priced at $14,999 - a significant $10,999 difference.
The {Hisense 110" UX} significantly outperforms with its 10,000 nit brightness capability. The {Samsung DU9000} performs best in controlled lighting conditions.
Yes, both TVs require professional installation due to their size and weight. The {Samsung DU9000} weighs 150 lbs with stand, and the {Hisense UX} weighs 240 lbs with stand.
The {Hisense UX} offers superior gaming features with 144Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. The {Samsung DU9000} provides good gaming performance at 120Hz, suitable for casual gamers.
For the {Samsung 98" DU9000}, you need at least 13-15 feet viewing distance, while the {Hisense 110" UX} requires 15-17 feet minimum. Room width should be at least 50% wider than the TV.
The {Hisense UX} uses Google TV, offering more apps and frequent updates. The {Samsung DU9000} uses Tizen OS, which is reliable but more limited in app selection.
Both handle sports well. The {Samsung DU9000} offers good motion handling, while the {Hisense UX} provides superior brightness and motion clarity with its 144Hz refresh rate.
The {Hisense UX} offers premium movie experience with superior contrast and Dolby Vision support. The {Samsung DU9000} still provides excellent movie viewing in controlled lighting.
Both TVs come with standard 1-year warranties. Given the investment, extended warranty options should be considered, especially for the {Hisense UX}.
Yes, both can be wall-mounted but require professional installation and specialized mounts. The {Samsung DU9000} and {Hisense UX} use standard VESA patterns but need robust wall support.
For most users, the {Samsung DU9000} offers better value, delivering about 70% of the premium experience at 27% of the cost of the {Hisense UX}. Unless you specifically need the premium features, the Samsung is the more practical choice.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: bestbuy.com - thebigscreenstore.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - rtings.com - assetserver.net - associatedappliance.com - insight.com - nfm.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - blog.rentacenter.com - samsung.com - merlinstv.com - samsung.com - digitaltrends.com - prnewswire.com - rtings.com - youtube.com - walts.com - hisense.com.au - imagematrix.tech - techguide.com.au - global.hisense.com - prnewswire.com
